Meniere's Disease Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

The intensity of symptoms can vary from one person to another. Symptoms usually come on suddenly. They typically involve only one ear, but may involve both.

Symptoms may include:

Episodes of vertigo (spinning sensation), often accompanied by:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating
- Paleness of the skin
- Weakness or falling
- In some cases, headache or diarrhea
Hearing loss may worsen during attacks of vertigo
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Poor sense of balance
A tendency for symptoms to worsen with movement

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. This will include an examination of your ears and a neurologic exam to evaluate for possible nerve damage.

Tests may include:

Blood tests—to check for an underlying cause
Hearing test —this is also called an audiometry
Electronystagmogram—a type of eye movement test
Auditory brainstem response—measures electrical activity in the hearing nerve and brain stem
Electrocochleogram—measures electrical response of the inner ear to sound
MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the ear

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2023 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.